Forest School originated
in Sweden in the 1950’s and was introduced in Britain in
the late 1990’s. It is an inspirational process that offers regular
opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors. Learning occurs in a
relaxed environment using all of the senses. Choices can be made and risks
understood and taken. Forest School happens all year round and
so children should wear warm, waterproof clothing. The ethos
of Forest School is that learners should be allowed time and
space to explore, develop skills and interests and understanding through
practical, hands on experience. Forest School promotes good health and
fitness and an awareness of good hygiene. It helps children’s social and
communication development as they work together problem solving, developing
motor-skills and coordination in a fun and relaxed environment. Children also
learn a sense of personal responsibility and respect for their environment as
well as developing their confidence, self-esteem and independence.

Hedgehog Class had an exciting first visit to the woods this week. Harry C explored ways of extending the ball run using sticks, while Jacob made stick bridges for the balls to race under.

Phoebe and Cora persevered with balancing logs against a tree to create a den, which they decorated with soft moss. Rafa and Harry V practised being statues so that the dinosaur (Esme) couldn’t see them and eat them, and Freya recorded things of interest using the camera.

Some children decided the logs were a boat in a sea of lava, and spent time jumping and hopping across them. Harry C, Freya and Phoebe decided that sticks would make good tools to make holes in damp wood, and Poppy, Zara and Margaux carefully cleared an area of loose logs so that nobody would trip on them and get hurt. Mrs Burton